As we climbed aboard the Sea Dog IV, we felt giddy with excitement. This was our first boat tour ever on the Atlantic Coast of Canada, and we were going out to view one of Nova Scotia's most iconic landmarks, Peggys Cove.
Peggys Cove
Peggy's Cove epitomizes the life and history of Atlantic Canada.
This small village is still a fishing community with lobster boats moored in the harbour where colourful wooden houses line the tiny inlet.
It's a timeless destination that lets you feel what life was, and is like for the hard-working families of Nova Scotia.
Tourists flock to Peggy's Cove to see the lighthouse standing proudly on rolling granite rocks.
The unique coastline was carved over thousands on years from retreating glaciers and ocean tides carving the 400 million-year-old rock created by molten lava bubbling up from the surface of the earth.
It's an incredible landscape that Dave and I couldn't quite put our finger on where we've seen anything like it before.
It's an experience to walk along the giant rolling formations to view the lighthouse from all different angles.
Dangers of Peggys Cove
Warning: When exploring Peggy's Cove, stay off the black rocks. Rogue waves have been known to sweep people out to sea. This year two separate incidents happened to two Ontario men. One was rescued, the other wasn't so lucky: His body was never found. Pay attention to the warning signs and don't become a Peggy's Cove casualty.
Part of the attraction of Peggy's Cove is due to hiking along the massive smooth rocks.
The 100-year-old lighthouse makes for postcard-perfect photographs where it rests high above the raging sea where its beacon still acts as a guide for passing ships.
It's a wonderful afternoon to stroll through the village, searching for local art or ordering a fresh catch of the day off the menu at the Sou'Wester restaurant located right beside the lighthouse.
We loved sitting on colourful Adirondack Chairs at the local coffee shop as we basked in the sun listening to visitors rave about the destination.
For more Canada travel, enjoy this beautiful photostory of Ontario
Tourists come to Peggys Cove from around the world.
While eavesdropping on conversations, we determined that all nations and cultures agree, Peggy's Cove is a magical timeless destination where one could rent a cottage for the summer and slow down to enjoy Canada's coastal playground.
But Peggy's Cove can be overrun with tourists when the buses arrive, so we suggest visiting at sunrise or sunset when the crowds disappear and you feel as though you have it all to yourself.
If you look hard enough, you can find a secluded rock to take in the view away from any care in the world.
Peggy's Cove by Sea
While seeing Peggy's Cove from land is extraordinary, viewing it from the sea is even better.
It's while on these waters that you realize how powerful the Atlantic Ocean can be and how important of a role the lighthouse played in keeping vessels safe through the fog and rough weather.
There is only one tour company that offers boat tours and you can book in advance or see if you can hop on the next tour that leaves port two to five times each day during peak season.
Peggy's Cove Boat Tours
See Peggy's Cove Boat Tours for more details.
Captain Peter and first mate Courtney welcomed us with hearty smiles and after a quick safety drill, we were heading out to sea.
The first thing you see once you leave the harbour is the Peggy's Cove lighthouse.
As the Captain sounds the horns, everyone on boards hoots and hollers letting the people on shore know just how much fun we were having.
Fishing Culture of Peggys Cove
Courtney told us about the history of Peggy's Cove and a bit about the life of a fisherman today.
It's a dying breed on the East Coast as corporations buy up fishing licenses from retiring fishermen and the younger generation seeks new and exciting lives in the cities.
The youngest age of the fishermen in Peggy's Cove in 50 years old!
But life goes through changes and careers come and go, so I guess this is the way of the world in many places.
As technology introduces people to a different way of life, career paths change and new generations turn their heads towards greener pastures.
See: Dave and Deb fly fishing in Ontario, Canada
For now, the life of the fisherman continues in Peggy's Cove.
Some families have flourished so much, they have bought beautiful homes and plots of land with private beaches in the nearby inlet of West Dover.
The tour is peaceful, informative and entertaining.
Captain of the Boat
Captain Peter, even lets you take a spin at the wheel when we are safely in a quiet bay.
We donned his captain's hat and kept the wheel steady as we tried to keep the boat heading in a straight line.
It's tougher than it looks, but as Captain Peter said, if you can drive a car, you can do this.
Seeing the lighthouse from a different perspective is definitely a highlight of the Peggy's Cove boat tour.
Plus exploring the islands and nearby harbours is something that shouldn't be missed.
It's worth getting out on the water to explore the coastline and view the different island formations of the surrounding area.
While many people simply spend a couple of hours at Peggy's Cove, we felt that two solid days wasn't enough.
There are many places to hike, kayak, watch the sunrise or enjoy a night by the campfire.
Peggy's Cove houses the William E. de Garthe fisherman's monument carved on 30 feet of granite rock in town.
And there's the beautiful Swiss Air monument honouring the 229 people who lost their lives in the 1998 plane crash that happened off the coast of Nova Scotia.
Where to Stay at Peggy's Cove
We suggest 3-5 days to truly enjoy the beauty and hospitality of Peggy's Cove.
There are plenty of places to stay and there's a beautiful landscape to explore. Take your time at Peggy's Cove and enjoy!
Where to Stay in Peggys Cove
The OceanStone Resort near Peggy's Cove
We stayed at Oceanstone Resort located just 5 minutes from Peggy's Cove.
The beautiful private cottages are perfect for couples or families.
With complete kitchens, private fire pits and beachfront properties, it's a secluded piece of paradise that you won't ever want to leave.
There's a dining room and bakery. It's places like this that add to the charm of travel through Nova Scotia. Many of the B&Bs are family run with personal touches added to make you feel at home.
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Phillip Mosley says
Amazing photos of sunset! perfect shot!
Krista says
Lovely piece! I live in Halifax and want to thank you for posting the warning. The ocean is incredibly beautiful, but far more powerful than you can ever imagine, especially if you’ve never experienced it before. A visit can turn tragic with no warning, so please heed the signs and any warnings from the locals.
Dave and Deb says
You are right Krista. Many people think that since the waves aren’t hitting them they’ll be fine. But waves are very unpredictable and have swept many people away all around the world.
Stephen Garone says
Very nice! I was there many years ago, just days after the crash of Swissair Flight 111, just off the coast. Would love to go back now that it isn’t as mournful.
Hannah says
I have yet to make it out to the east coast but I definitely need to. Peggy’s Cove is supposed to be gorgeous (your photos are beautiful!)
I can’t believe that the youngest fisherman is 50 years old though- that’s crazy! It’s really too bad thats dying out.
Dave and Deb says
So true. Corporations are buying up all the fishing licenses. I have no idea who they’ll end up hiring as the younger generation moves out. They’ll probably have people from all around the world coming in to work on the fishing boats. That’s progress though.
Mitesh Shere says
Awesome pic! I really liked your post.
Sofia says
Nothing beats a perfect shot of lighthouse at sunset. This is so lovely. I can stare at it for hours. 🙂
Reuben says
What a beautiful place and post! Looks very calm! Thankyou for sharing!